Onam, a ten-day-long festival in Kerala, celebrates the homecoming of King Mahabali and honours Lord Vishnu’s Vaman avatar. The people of Kerala immerse themselves in the joyous festivities and make the most of this auspicious occasion. Happy Onam 2023 to all!
Table of Contents
Dates and Timings of Onam 2023
The festival of Onam falls on Thiruvonam Nakshatram (Shravana Asterism) which is August-September on the English calendar. It begins with Atham (Hasta) Nakshatram and ends on Thiruvonam (Shravana) Nakshatram.
| Festivities | Date | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Atham | 20 August 2023 | Pookalam with flowers |
| Chithira | 21 August 2023 | Cleaning of the entire house |
| Chodi | 22 August 2023 | Meet and exchange gifts(Onakodi) |
| Vishakam | 23 August 2023 | A feast of 24 cuisines(Onam Sadhya ) |
| Anizham | 24 August 2023 | The snake boat race begins |
| Thriketta | 25 August 2023 | Children begin prayers |
| Moolam | 26 August 2023 | Onam Sadhya and dance performances |
| Pooradam | 27 August 2023 | Idols are cleaned |
| First Onam | 28 August 2023 | Buy fruits and vegetables |
| Third Onam (Avittom) | 30 August 2023 | Mahabali’s Idol Immersion |
| Fourth Onam (Chatayam) | 31 August 2023 | Boat race event and celebrations |
| Thiruonam Onam | 29 August 2023 | offer prayers and exchange gifts |
| Thiruvonam Nakshathram begins at | 4:00 PM 29 August 2023 | – |
| Thiruvonam Nakshathram ends at | 1:46 PM 29 August 2023 | – |
Significance of Onam 2023
In Indian mythology, the significance of Onam pertains to Lord Vishnu’s disguise as Vaman Avatar, which he used to put an end to King Mahabali’s excessively long rule. King Mahabali was one of history’s best and most powerful rulers, bringing splendour and wealth to his realm. He was tricked into making a desire he couldn’t make, and as a result, he received a punishment from the Brahman Devta in his Vaman Avatar form. He was relegated to a lower realm but given a blessing that allowed him to return to his kingdom once per year, which is today recognised as Onam Day.
The festival of Onam brings peace, prosperity, and unity to people. It is also known as the harvest festival of Kerala.
Observations
- Women make different floral patterns(Pookkalam/Rangoli) on the floor with petals and illuminate lamps to welcome King Mahabali.
- The day witnesses new clothes(Onakkodi) flaunted and donated.
- The grand feast of 24 cuisines(Onam sadhya), including a sweet dish (Payasam), gets served on banana leaves.
- The boat race is the sporty observance at the festival of Onam.
- The day witnesses decorated elephants in the parades.
- People install and worship Vaman Avatar idols(Thrikkakara appan/Onathappan).
- Cultural activities like classical Kathakali dance, music, art, and cuisine make Onam festive and alive.
- Marking the tourism week in Kerala, people disguise themselves as tigers for the Pulikali dance.
Wishes Messages Quotes
We wish you and your family a very Happy Onam 2023
I wish that this Onam fills your house and heart with pleasure and delight. Happy Onam 2023
I wish the essence of Onam grants you all the success in your life. Happy Onam!
This Onam, I wish for all your distress and pains to disappear. May you be bestowed with pleasure, wellness and accomplishment. Happy Onam 2023, from our family to yours!
I hope your life is as vivid as Pookalam and adequate with delight like the Onam Sadhya. I wish happiness and a Happy Onam to you and your family!
Vivid Pookalam, lively melodies, and delightful feast accomplished with prayers offer a happy life and a bright future. Happy Onam!
This Onam, may you be showered with success, prosperity, and happiness. Have a pleasant Onam 2023
Let’s celebrate the spirit of the harvest festival in all its brilliance, decorate the house with Pookalams, listen to the musical Onappattus, and experience the auspicious celebration of Onam!
Onam is an excellent time for family time. So this Onam, I wish you and your family a good time. Happy Onam!
Onam Images
